Controversial Christian Group's Finances Scrutinized Amid Member Lawsuit
The "Adi Yehovah" community in Israel, a controversial Christian group often labeled as missionary by critics, requires its members to surrender all their possessions and live in poverty. Meanwhile, its organizational framework in Israel, "Mitzpeh LeYisrael," which comprises 19 members, has accumulated millions in surplus funds and owns property valued at 20 million shekels as of the end of 2024. This information comes from a ruling by the National Labor Court and the organization's financial data.
The group, which identifies as Messianic, is known for its door-to-door proselytizing. Globally, it has 9 million followers, with 2,000 in Israel and an additional 300 in the Palestinian territories. Between 2018 and 2024, "Mitzpeh LeYisrael" accumulated over 13.3 million shekels in surplus, with only one year (2021) showing a deficit. Its board members are Alex Fredrikson, Alexey Wrightblat, and Denis Gayfman.
In 2024, "Mitzpeh LeYisrael" reported revenues of 4.7 million shekels, largely from a foreign corporate donation of 3.8 million shekels, and expenses of 1.8 million shekels. The organization owns significant real estate, including apartments in Ashdod, Haifa, Tel Aviv, and Ashkelon, used for prayer, housing clergy, and operational activities, alongside prayer halls in Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Petah Tikva, and Beersheba.
The financial scrutiny intensified due to a lawsuit filed by Nissim Nahum, a former member who joined at 16 and worked for the group for 15 years in various roles, including translator and production manager. Nahum claims he was exploited as cheap labor and left in 2021, subsequently suing for 770,000 shekels in back pay and benefits. He had signed commitment documents in 2002 and 2005, agreeing to a simple, non-materialistic life, dedicating his services to the group, and accepting only basic provisions.
The Regional Labor Court initially dismissed Nahum's claim, finding no employer-employee relationship. However, the National Labor Court overturned this decision, with a rare majority ruling. The court determined that Nahum's work had characteristics of a professional, secular employment relationship, with defined hours and supervision, and that the organization failed to prove his voluntary commitment was solely for religious fulfillment. The case has been returned to the regional court to address the merits of Nahum's claim for basic social rights.
